Martha Stewart has addressed the backlash over her Halloween costume depicting a homeless person. The lifestyle mogul shared her response with Page Six on Sunday, November 1, after deleting the controversial photo from social media.
"I am distressed that my Halloween costume yesterday, which was intended to bring more awareness to the very serious subject of homelessness, has offended people, which was never my intention," Stewart said in a statement. "Homelessness continues to remain one of America's greatest challenges and ongoing crises, something that I care deeply about and I have spent a significant amount of time and effort supporting charities that combat this ongoing social epidemic," she continued.
Stewart also reaffirmed her commitment to the cause, saying she was "committed to continuing to make a difference." The controversy erupted after she posted a photo of herself wearing ripped clothing, dirt on her face, and holding a sign reading, "I am hungry.
Help me." The image appeared in a carousel promoting her candles before she removed it from her official accounts. Social media users had quickly expressed their outrage, calling the costume tone-deaf and insensitive to the plight of vulnerable populations.
Many critics pointed out that portraying poverty and homelessness as a costume trivializes systemic social issues. In response to the rapid criticism, representatives for the star scrambled to mitigate the public relations damage by issuing the clarification.
Stewart hopes that despite the misunderstanding, the conversation will keep public attention focused on supporting organizations that provide shelter and food.